shows

The longest-running television variety series in history, known for its wild mix of comedy sketches, tearful family reunions, eccentric amateur talent shows and scantily-clad dancing women, is coming off the air after 53 years.

Univision announced Friday morning that “Sábado Gigante,” the network’s longest-running program, will end September 19, which coincides with the end of the 2014-2015 broadcast television season.

UPDATE June 6, 2013 14:43 p.m.: (AP) Esther Williams, the swimming champion turned actress who starred in glittering and aquatic Technicolor musicals of the 1940s and 1950s, has died. She was 91.

Williams died early Thursday in her sleep, according to her longtime publicist Harlan Boll.

Following in the footsteps of Sonja Henie, who went from skating champion to movie star, Williams became one of Hollywood's biggest moneymakers, appearing in spectacular swimsuit numbers that capitalized on her wholesome beauty and perfect figure.